The Parks Canada Visitor Centre at Wapusk National Park is currently closed but can be opened by request. Contact in advance to make arrangements. Limited park access year-round.
There is no entry fee to visit Wapusk National Park. Admission is free for all visitors, including daily and annual visits. However, some special programs and services may have additional fees.
By Air: Fly Winnipeg→Churchill, then join licensed tour operators for helicopter or specialized-vehicle access into the park. Via Rail: Train to Churchill or Gillam, then guided transfer. Driving: Road access ends at Gillam; further travel by train or air. Tours: Only licensed commercial operators in Churchill may enter the park by tundra buggy, helicopter, or tracked vehicles.
There are no parking facilities within Wapusk National Park. Parking is available at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre in Churchill, but not within the park itself. No overnight parking is permitted inside the park.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Located on the shores of Hudson Bay in Manitoba, Wapusk National Park is a remote Arctic haven renowned for its polar bear migrations near Cape Churchill, as well as arctic foxes, snowy owls, and caribou. Visitors can join guided tundra buggy tours, helicopter flights, or boat excursions departing from Churchill. Birdwatchers come for species like tundra swans and semipalmated plovers. The nearby Churchill Northern Studies Centre offers educational programs on the region’s unique biodiversity. Wapusk provides an awe-inspiring glimpse into Canada’s Arctic wilderness.
- Area (km²)
- 7130.99
- Annual visitors
- 200
- Established year
- 1996
Top 3 Facts about Wapusk National Park
The park protects over 3,475 square kilometers of wetlands, vital breeding grounds for numerous waterfowl species, including snow geese and tundra swans. These wetlands are crucial for the diverse biodiversity of the region.
The park experiences extreme seasonal variations, from –40 °C in winter to 30 °C in summer.
Protects over 3,475 km² of wetlands, vital breeding grounds for snow geese, tundra swans, and other waterfowl.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research and book Churchill tour operators and accommodations months in advance; secure park and tour permits early.
Pack Appropriately
In winter: thermal base layers, insulated outerwear, waterproof boots, hats, gloves. In summer: layered clothing for variable weather, sun protection, insect repellent.
Respect Wildlife
Always follow guide safety protocols; maintain safe distance from wildlife; never approach or feed animals; carry bear deterrents if advised.
Stay Informed
Check Parks Canada and tour-operator advisories for weather, wildlife activity, access protocols, and emergency contacts.
Seasons
Spring (Mar–Apr): cold and snowy—prime time to glimpse polar bear cubs emerging from their dens.
Summer (May–Aug): long daylight, milder temps (–10 °C to 35 °C)—ideal for guided tours, tundra exploration, and wildlife viewing under the midnight sun.
Fall (Oct): cooling temps, polar bears migrating toward the coast—unparalleled wildlife spectacle amid autumn tundra colors.
Winter (Oct–May): extreme cold (to –50 °C), snow-covered tundra—serene Arctic wonderland for guided snowshoeing, skiing, and northern lights viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Wapusk National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Wapusk National Park, you should stay in Churchill, Manitoba, as it is the closest city with available lodging options. Churchill is about 83 miles from the park and offers several hotels and inns.
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There are no child-friendly hiking trails available, as the park requires visits to be conducted through licensed tour operators and does not have accessible trails or road access. The park’s remote and rugged terrain makes it unsuitable for independent or family hiking trips. Visitors must rely on guided tours, such as aerial tours or polar bear viewing expeditions.
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You can bring your dog, but it must be on a leash. The park is home to over 1,000 polar bears, so your dog needs to remain calm around them. Access is only through authorized commercial tour operators via plane or dog sled.
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Parking is very limited and not suitable for camper vans, trailers, or motorhomes. There are a few parking spaces available at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre, but conventional parking lots are not available due to the remote and rugged terrain. Access is typically through guided tours or charter flights from Churchill.
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Yes, you need a licensed tour operator to visit, as all activities in the park require a guided tour. These tours are typically arranged through operators in Churchill.